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\par }}{\*\aftnsepc \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\sa200\sl276\slmult1\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f38\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid7363728 \chftnsepc }{\insrsid7958100 \par }}\sectd \linex0\headery709\footery709\colsx708\endnhere\sectlinegrid360\sectdefaultcl\sectrsid6905319\sftnbj {\footer \pard\plain \s16\qr \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4680\tqr\tx9360\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f38\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\field{\*\fldinst {\insrsid5534445 PAGE \\* MERGEFORMAT }}{\fldrslt {\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid7958100 2}}}{\insrsid12144823 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4680\tqr\tx9360\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\insrsid12144823 \par }}{\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}} {\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8 \pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 \f38\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\fs24\insrsid5123494\charrsid7958100 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI \par AT SUVA \par APPELLATE JURISDICTION \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\f0\fs24\insrsid5123494\charrsid7958100 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\f0\fs24\insrsid5123494\charrsid7958100 CRIMINAL APPEAL CASE NO. HAA 044 OF 2009S \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\f0\fs24\insrsid5123494\charrsid7958100 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\f0\fs24\insrsid5123494\charrsid7958100 1. BILI QITA TOKIVAKADUA \par 2. JOJI SAIQA \par 3. ILAISA NACA \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\f0\fs24\insrsid5123494\charrsid7958100 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\f0\fs24\insrsid5123494\charrsid7958100 V \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\f0\fs24\insrsid5123494\charrsid7958100 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\f0\fs24\insrsid5123494\charrsid7958100 THE STATE \par }\pard \ql \fi-567\li567\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin567\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Counsels:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Appellant No. 1 in Person \par Appellant No. 2 in Person \par Appellant No. 3 in Person}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par Mr. L. Fotofili for State}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Hearing:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 29th January 2010 \par }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Judgment:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 2nd July 2010 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-567\li567\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin567\itap0\pararsid5123494 \f38\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \s15\qc \fi-567\li567\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin567\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 JUDGMENT}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-567\li567\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin567\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 \f38\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 1.}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 On 15th August 2008, the three appellants, with two others, appeared in the Suva}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Magistrate Court, on the following charges:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 COUNT 1}{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Statement of Offence}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 ROBBERY WITH VIOLENCE}{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 : contrary to Section 293(1)(b) of the}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Penal Code, Chapter 17. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Particulars of Offence}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 BILI QITA TOKIVAKADUA, JOJI SAIQA, ILAISA NACA}{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 on the 3rd}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 day of June 2008, at Samabula, in the Central Division, robbed }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 IAN}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 DOUGLAS ROCHE}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 of assorted jewelleries worth $5,000.00, assorted}{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 cosmetics worth $390.00, I Nokia mobile phone valued at $300.00,}{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 1 Blackberry phone valued at $799.00, 1 Skype Phone valued at}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 } {\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 $300.00, I gate remote valued at $170.00, 2 sets of keys valued at}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 $300.00, 1 leather back pack valued at $600.00, 1 Black leather bag}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 valued at $600.00, 2 DVD players valued at $700.00, 1 Panasonic}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Laptop valued at $1,600.00, 1 MPG Player valued at $200.00, ladies}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 shoes valued at $60.00, 1 Black back pack valued at $600.00, cash}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 F$300.00, cash AUD $400.00 and bank cards all to the total value of}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 $12,319.00 and immediately before such robbery did use personal}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 violence on the said }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 IAN DOUGLAS ROCHE. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 COUNT 2}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Statement of Offence}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 UNLAWFUL USE OF MOTOR VEHICLE: }{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 contrary to Section 292 of}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 the Penal Code, Chapter 17.}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Particulars of Offence}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid7958100 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 BILI QITATOKIVAKADUA, JOJI SAIQA, ILAISA NACA }{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 on the 3rd}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 day of June 2008, at Suva in the Central Division, unlawfully and}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 without colour of right but not so as to be guilty of stealing took to}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 their own use a vehicle registration number DV862 the property of}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 the said }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 IAN DOUGLAS ROCHE}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 . \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par 2.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 On 3rd November 2008, the three appellants appeared in court, while the other two were absent. A bench warrant was issued for the other two. On 9th February 2009, the Suva Magistrate Court proceeded with the trial of the three appellants. They were unrepresented. Five prosecution witnesses were called. The matter was then adjourned to 1st April 2009 for a }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trial within a trial}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 . Twelve police officers gave evidence in the }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trial within a trial}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 . On 2nd April 2009, the }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trial within a trial}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 continued. Another police officer gave evidence, and the prosecution closed their case, in the }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trial within a trial}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 . Each of three appellants gave evidence on oath, on the }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trial within a trial}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 matter. After giving their evidence, the court stood the matter down to 2.30pm to deliver its ruling on the }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trial within a trial}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 . \par \par 3.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 At 2.30pm, the court deferred its ruling on the }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trial within a trial}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 matter. The court then said, \par }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \'85 All the evidence before me I find that there\rquote s a case to}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 answer against the accused persons. Option now given \'85}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par All the appellants choose to remain silent. Only appellant No. 1 called a witness in its defence. Appellant No. 2 and 3 called no witness. That was the case for the defence. The case was then adjourned to 16th April 2009 for judgment. \par \par 4.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 On 10th April 2009, all judicial appointments were revoked, as a result of the Revocation of Judicial Appointments Decree 2009. The appointment of the learned Resident Magistrate presiding on this matter was revoked. She was unable to deliver judgment on 16th April 2009. The newly appointed Chief Magistrate took over the matter on 14th May 2009, and proceeded to deliver a written judgment on 9th June 2009. He found all three appellants guilty as charged, on both counts. He later sentenced appellant No. 1 and 2 to 5 years imprisonment each, and appellant No. 3 to 3\'bd years imprisonment. \par \par 5.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 All three appellants have appealed against the learned Chief Magistrate\rquote s decision. Numerous grounds were advanced, but it can be distilled into two: \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 (i)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 The learned Chief Magistrate should have disregarded their confessions, since it}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 was unlawfully obtained; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 (ii)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 That there was no direct evidence linking them to the offence. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par 6.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Appeal Ground 5(i) above: \par \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 (i)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 The learned Chief Magistrate did not hear the evidence in this matter. It was}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 heard by another learned Resident Magistrate, sitting at Suva. On 10th April}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 2009, the presiding Resident Magistrate\rquote s appointment was revoked by the}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 government. She was unable to return to complete the hearing, by delivering}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 judgment on 16th April 2009. The newly appointed Chief Magistrate, at the}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 time, read the evidential notes on the record, and delivered judgment on 9th}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 June 2009. He relied on section 47 of the Magistrate Court Act Chapter 14, as}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 authority for his action. \par \par (ii)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Section 47 of the Magistrate Courts Act read as follows:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \'85 Where a magistrate has issued any summons or warrant or}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 otherwise taken or commenced any proceeding or matter whether }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 civil or criminal, under any authority however conferred, and}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 subsequently ceases to act as such magistrate, it shall be lawful for}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 the person in whose hands such summons or warrant may be to}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 execute or serve the same in the same manner as if the magistrate}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 who issued such summons or warrant had not ceased to act as such}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 magistrate and any successor of such magistrate or any person}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 acting}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 for such magistrate, may hear, determine, execute, enforce}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 and carry to completion any proceeding or matter so commenced as}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 a foresaid save that, except where otherwise provided by the}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Criminal Procedure Code, such magistrate shall commence the trial}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 of any such cause or matter ab inito\'85}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 (iii)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Sec tion 215 of the Criminal Procedure, Chapter 21, read as follows:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \'85 The court having heard both the prosecutor and the accused}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 person and their witnesses and evidence shall either convict the}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 accused and}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 pass sentence upon or make an order against him}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 according to law or shall acquit him or make an order under the}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 provisions of section 44 of the Penal Code\'85}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 (iv)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Section 183 of the Criminal Procedure Decree 2009, now replaced the}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 repealed section 215 of the Criminal Procedure Code, and it reads as follows:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \'85 The court having heard both the prosecutor and the accused}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 person and their witnesses and evidence, shall either \emdash \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 (a)}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 find the accused guilty and pass sentence or make an order}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 according to law; or \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 (b)}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 acquit the accused; or \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 (c)}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 make an order under the provisions of Part IX of the}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Sentencing and Penalties Decree 2009..}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par (v)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 After carefully reading and comparing section 47 of the Magistrate Court}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Act, Chapter 14, section 215 of the repealed Criminal Procedure Code,}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Chapter 21 and section 183 of the Criminal Procedure Decree 2009, and}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trying to ascertain the intentions of Parliament and the lawmakers, it is}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 strongly arguable that what the learned Chief Magistrate did at the time,}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 given the factual scenarios that confronted him at the time, was proper and}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 logical. Arguably, he was faced with a somewhat similar scenario that}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 confronted His Lordship Justice Goundar in }{\b\i\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 State}{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 v}{\b\i\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Volivale}{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 [2009] FJHC}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 108, Criminal Case No. HAC 030 of 2005S, High Court, Suva}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 . In that case,}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Her Ladyship Justice Shameem oversaw the trial with assessors, until the}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 accused was found guilty as charged. Her Ladyship was unable to complete}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 the trial because of the 10th April 2009 crisis. His Lordship Justice Goundar}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 completed the trial by sentencing the accused. In this case, the learned}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Chief Magistrate, completed the trial by delivering the judgment and}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 passing sentence. Given the aftermath of the 10th April 2009 crisis, I find}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 that what the Chief Magistrate did, at the time, was proper and logical. He}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 was entitled to complete the matter by delivering a judgment and sentence. \par \par (vi)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Having said the above, any judgment must comply with the requirements}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 of the repealed section 154 and 155 of the Criminal Procedure Code,}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 } {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Chapter 17, or section 141 and 142 of the Criminal Procedure Decree}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 2009. When it comes to a Ruling on a }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Trial within a Trial}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 , the}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 requirements of the above sections must be applied, with such}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 modifications as the circumstances require. In this case, looking through}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 the court record, there was no ruling on the }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trial within a trial}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 given by}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 the learned presiding trial magistrate. In my view, this was a fatal error.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 How can the learned Chief Magistrate say that }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 the caution interview was}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 admitted in this case after a }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 voir dire}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trial}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 , when there was no written}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 ruling on the matter. In a case, which depended so much on the appellants\rquote }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 confession, it was vital that a written ruling was given, before the trial}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 proper recommenced. The accuseds ought to know why their confessions}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 were ruled admissible evidence, to enable them to map out their defence}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 thereafter. Although the learned trial magistrate was the judge of fact and}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 law, it was still essential to give a written ruling on the }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 trial within a trial}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 ,}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 to enable the defence to plan their defence accordingly. They were}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 deprived of this opportunity, and in my view, that led to a miscarriage of}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 justice. In a sense, the learned Chief Magistrate should have disregarded}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 the appellants\rquote confessions, on the ground that a written ruling was}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 unavailable, and set the matter up for a trial de novo. I quash the three}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 appellants\rquote convictions in the Suva Magistrate Court on 9th June, 2009. \par \par 7.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Appeal Ground 5(ii) above: \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 (i)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Because of the above, it is unnecessary to consider this ground. \par \par 8.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Summary \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Appeal allowed. The three appellants\rquote convictions in the Suva Magistrate Court on 9th}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 June 2009 are quashed, and a re-trial is ordered before another Resident Magistrate.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Since this is an old case, it must be given priority. All three appellants are ordered to}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 appear before the Suva Magistrate Court on 15th July 2010 for mention. The prosecutor}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 is to uplift their exhibits etc. from the court to set the matter up for re-trial. All accuseds}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 are remanded in custody, and any bail application is to be considered by the presiding}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Resident Magistrate. \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 Salesi Temo \par ACTING JUDGE \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid5123494 {\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 \par }{\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5123494\charrsid5123494 AT Suva \par 2nd July 2010}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1972231\charrsid5123494 \par }}